Trump Threatens Toll Charges in Strait of Hormuz as Iran-U.S. Talks Begin
Iran announced on Saturday that it had closed the Strait of Hormuz, citing Israel's military actions in Lebanon and accusing the United States of failing to end the conflict. The move comes as negotiations between Iran and the United States on an interim agreement are set to resume in Switzerland, but Iranian officials indicated that progress would be unlikely without a halt to the fighting.
In response, U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to impose tolls on vessels passing through the strategic waterway if a final deal with Iran is not reached within 60 days. In a social media post, Trump described the tolls as payment for “services rendered as the Guardian Angel to the countries of the Middle East.” The current interim agreement provides for toll-free passage during the 60-day negotiation period.
The developments suggest a rocky start to the technical-level talks, which key mediator Pakistan said would begin on Sunday. Qatari mediators are also expected to participate. Iran's joint military command said the strait was closed due to the United States' “clear breach of its commitments” by failing to end the war. The interim deal is intended to cease hostilities on all fronts.
Iran's state broadcaster reported that the negotiating team, which includes parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and central bank and oil officials, was departing for Switzerland after a delay from Friday. The interim agreement calls for the unfreezing of Iranian assets.
The U.S. military disputed Iran's claim of control over the Strait of Hormuz. “Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz. Traffic continues to flow, and US forces are monitoring the situation to ensure this remains the case,” said Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for U.S. Central Command. He added that 55 merchant ships transited on Saturday, carrying more than 17 million barrels of oil.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital chokepoint for global oil shipments, with about one-fifth of the world's petroleum passing through it. Any disruption could have significant economic consequences. The United States and Iran have been engaged in indirect talks mediated by regional powers to de-escalate tensions and reach a new nuclear agreement. The latest developments add further uncertainty to the fragile diplomatic process.
